Everton shared a piece of significant news on Thursday as it was announced that Michael Keane had signed a new contract.
The Friedkin Group opted to offer the England international the chance to stay until July 2027 – at least – after Jarrad Branthwaite suffered another hamstring injury in the Merseyside derby.
Everton had the option to trigger an additional year in his contract on the same terms, but Keane has been given an improved deal instead to acknowledge his commitment this season, making 24 Premier League starts and contributing to one of the best defences in the division.
After hearing that Michael Keane had penned a new deal, the likes of Jack Grealish and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall reacted on Instagram alongside others.
Do Everton still need to add a new centre-back this summer? 🤔
Everton defender Michael Keane.
Credit: Getty Images/Chris Brunskill/Fantasista
McNeil and Dewsbury-Hall applaud Keane as Grealish ‘likes’ news on Instagram
The 33-year-old has become an important cog under David Moyes this season, despite only making 11 starts in the Premier League last term.
Keane is quite clearly a popular figure around Finch Farm too based on the reaction to his contract.
Dewsbury-Hall was among the first to respond, posting “love it bro 💙” in the comments section on Instagram. Dwight McNeil was also pleased, writing “Keanoooooo 💙” to send his congratulations.
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Alex Iwobi commented too, branding the Everton No.5 a “LEGEND” while James Tarkowski called his fellow defender a “king” after hearing the news.
Asmir Begovic congratulated Keane as well – writing “nice” – while Grealish opted to simply click the like button on the announcement rather than post a message.
Some Everton fans across social media have disagreed with the decision to keep the former Manchester United defender on, which is understandable considering he turns 34 next season and was already earning £80,000-a-week before receiving improved terms in his new contract.
Did Everton miss an opportunity to cash in on Branthwaite? 🫣
His constant hamstring injuries have to be a huge concern…
Jarrad Branthwaite playing for Everton.
Credit: Getty Images/Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA
However, it is important to have the right characters within a football club who set the standards, and Keane is quite clearly a popular man at Everton who commands the respect of his teammates.
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